Genesis 46

Scripture:  Genesis 46:28-34

Observation:  Joseph sends Judah his brother ahead to Goshen and goes to see his father.  He embraces and cries over him, and Jacob is now ready to die, knowing his son is alive.  Joseph then tells his family that he will go and tell Pharaoh that they are now in Egypt.  They are to tell Pharaoh and his men that they are shepherds, since this is an abomination to the Egyptians, so that they may be allowed to settle in Goshen.

Application:  Joseph's brothers had tried to dispose of him, yet now Joseph seeks to settle his brothers and their families in a safe haven.  It was important to Joseph to keep his family apart from the Egyptians so they would not forget the Lord by mixing in with pagans.  Jesus calls us to also be separate from the world.  The apostle Paul also urged Christians not to conform to this world, but to be transformed instead.  Joseph knew the importance of not being part of this world.  Do I?

Prayer:  Father, it's easy to get caught up in the things the world considers important:  fame, fashion, money, career, material possessions.  But what do these things bring me?  Temporary happiness, and many times not even that.  Your promises are eternal, and they bring me peace and contentment.  Help me to keep my eyes focused on You and not on what the world offers.  Your offers are secure; everything else, as Solomon stated, is vanity and striving after the wind.  I want to strive after You and Your kingdom.  They are the only thing worthwhile.  Thank You Father for Your everlasting presence in my life.  In Jesus' name, Amen.